Who next for Sam Noakes?
- Apr 29, 2024
- 2 min read
Sam Noakes is taking the Lightweight division by storm, capturing the British, Commonwealth and European titles in 14 fights. Noakes held a 100% KO win record until his last win against the experienced Yvan Mendy. Going to points for the first time will have benefitted the new European champion drastically. Yvan Mendy fought for in a World title eliminator in 2022 and, after Saturday night, it is clear Noakes is not far off that level. The question is, who should Sam Noakes fight next?
Mark Chamberlain?
If you’re discussing who Sam Noakes should fight next, it is hard to not mention fellow Queensberry Promotions Lightweight Mark Chamberlain. From a promotional perspective, the fight makes perfect sense. Both under the same promotional banner, Chamberlain is managed by Frank Warren, Sam is managed by Frank’s son Francis and Chamberlain’s win against former European champion Gavin Gwynne proved he deserves a shot at the current champion.
Like Noakes, Chamberlain proved his punch power is there moving through the levels. A fight between Noakes and Chamberlain has all the ingredients for a serious domestic dust-up.
Gianluca Ceglia?
Prior to his fight with Yvan Mendy, the European Boxing Union (EBU) ordered that the winner of Noakes vs Mendy must defend their title against mandatory challenger Gianluca Ceglia (24-4-1) next. If Noakes wants to keep his title, he must defend against Ceglia (unless a deal can be reached with Ceglia about stepping aside).
Denys Berinchyk?
Set to fight Emanuel Navarrete for the WBO Lightweight World title on May 18, Berinchyk secured his position as No.1 contender with the WBO with wins against Mendy and Anthony Yigit.
Speaking to Queensberry’s Dev Sahni prior to Noakes vs Mendy, Sahni confirmed that Berinchyk is co-signed to Queensberry (alongside K2 Promotions). If Berinchyk secures the title, Noakes, ranked WBO No.10, could be in line for a voluntary defence against the newly crowned champion.
With Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions hosting massive shows in Saudi Arabia, and cross-promoting with long term rivals Matchroom Boxing, whoever is next must be a massive opportunity for the British, Commonwealth and European Lightweight champion.
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